At Betty’s Tearooms – a morning coffee stop may already be essential to assess the damage – turn left into bustling, beautiful Stonegate, once the main road, Via Praetoria, which led to the Roman headquarters and where the Minster now stands. Perfectly appropriate then that your first stop is the wonderfully Italian Valpiani. Further on, the famous Droopy & Browns occupies an historic building simply stuffed with posh frocks, bridal outfits and magnificent millinery. Take a look at our Things to do in York guide for more information on Betty’s Tearom.

Next is Low Petergate, named after the Minster’s patron saint, Peter. But be warned – even his influence may not be enough to stop you from being very ‘wicked’ along this street. The temptation begins at Bleu Marine, stockists of Basler, Joyce Ridings, Zapa, Saint James, continuing at Giselle – La Perla, Paul Costelloe, Claudia Strater, Save The Queen – and at Moda in Pelle, for gorgeous shoes and bags.

Before you go any further, peep down Grape Lane – once distinctly sinful in its trade, these days part of York’s stylish Swinegate Quarter where Temptations, as its name implies, sells dreamy designer lingerie. From here it’s a few short steps into the fabulous Italian shoes of Chinelli, and then on to YoYo on the corner of Swinegate. To ease your conscience a little, visit Mulberry, for ladies, menswear and quality luggage at greatly reduced prices. Feeling better now? Let the spending go on – at Ten Thousand Men, a delight for designer men.

Retrace your steps to Low Petergate, and prepare yourself for Paul Smith and the unique, exclusive experience of Sarah Coggles. Finally, a safe haven amongst the trees in Kings Square! Rest your legs – and your wallet – and let the lively street entertainers keep you from going back for more…

Recovered? Cross Kings Square into the Shambles and look into Cox of Yorkshire, specialists in leather goods, accessories, sheepskins and fine handbags. Cut through the snickelway at the side of the shop into Newgate Market, meander through the colourful stalls of clothes, pottery, plants and food onto Parliament Street and right into St Sampson’s Square to the extensive fashion departments of Browns of York, including Alexon, Jacques Vert, Planet, Aquascutum, Gabicci, Benetton and many more.

Marks & Spencer have two stores in York; Parliament Street for food and fashions, including Autograph, and Coppergate for children’s wear and homeware. Coppergate is also where you’ll find JORVIK – the Viking City, next door to the famous department store Fenwicks, with names such as Betty Barclay, Max Mara, Coast and Morgan.

Cross the river by Ouse Bridge to reach Micklegate, where Amanda’s of York stocks D & G, Ted Baker, Miss Sixty, Diesel and Guess Jeans.

You want more? Hop on a Red Line Park & Ride bus from the city centre (Clifford St or Station) to the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, where you will find over 115 top brand stores including Armani, Ted Baker, DKNY, Hilfiger and Burberry all with discounts of up to 50% – which you may well be needing by now!

More Information

Do you want more ideas for days out in York? Take a look at our other York travel itineraries and create a great day out the next time you are looking for something new to do in York.